The next stages of Sunshine Coast Council’s much anticipated works to protect and enhance the natural beauty and unique character of the iconic Maroochy River Foreshore are now underway.

Division 8 Councillor Jason OPray said residents and visitors to the precious river foreshore along Bradman Avenue in Maroochydore would soon be able to enjoy infrastructure that is fitting for such a beautiful and busy location.

“Construction works for stages 2 and 3 of the Maroochy River Foreshore Upgrade started immediately after the Easter School holidays and are scheduled to be completed in time for local residents and visitors to enjoy by the June/July School holidays (weather permitting),” Cr OPray said.

“The construction works have been designed to achieve the objectives outlined in the Maroochy River Foreshore Open Space Master Plan (2011),” he said.

“The Maroochy River Foreshore is a significant environmental and community recreation area so community engagement played a very important part of the development of the master plan.”

Stages 2 and 3 of the project include the following improvements to the existing beachfront recreation area:

Upgrading the existing pedestrian pathway to 3m wide, allowing for safer use by pedestrians and cyclists;

Upgrades to park furniture including tables, seats, bins and taps;

General landscape works with semi-mature tree planting, new gardens and turf; and

Provision for future pedestrian lighting.

Cr OPray said during construction it was unlikely property access would be affected other than for short durations.

“Traffic and pedestrian management measures are in place to ensure the safety of pedestrians and motorists during construction,” he said.

“Your patience is appreciated whilst construction works are in progress.”

Next up, will be a walkway connecting Stage 1 to Stage 2 which will provide pedestrians with a great view of the river. Council is currently undertaking the detailed design of this short length of elevated walkway between Minti Street and Mai Street. Construction is currently scheduled for 2014/15.